Pasil fire victims get financial aid

CEBU, Philippines — The Department of Social Welfare and Services (DSWS) yesterday started the distribution of financial assistance to at least 825 fire victims in Sitio Lawis, Barangay Pasil, Cebu City.

The city government gave out P20,000 each to house owners while renters and sharers get P10,000 each. Based on the records of DSWS, there were 342 individuals whose houses were razed by fire, seven were damaged, 382 sharers, and 92 renters.

DSWS chief Lea Japson said that aside from cash assistance, house owners will also get 10 sheets each of plywood and galvanized iron for roofing.

The fire victims also received P5,000 assistance from the Department of Labor and Employment.

“Nagpasalamat mi nga nitubag sila sa among panginahanglan…katong time nga nasunogan mi kay wala mi kabalo nga naa bay financial (assistance) nga muabot sa amoa,” Jory Canillas, one of the beneficiaries said.

Canillas, however, admitted that the amount they received is not enough to rebuild their house.

“Para nako, kay hurot man jud among balay, dili jud siya igo pero mao ramay gihatag di amo rapu’ng dawaton, nagpasalamat lang pud mi nga naa mi nadawat,” Canillas added.

Japson said the releasing of financial assistance will continue tomorrow. All beneficiaries are required to bring their DSWS assessment form and should present at least one valid identification card. — Mary Kristine M. Cameros, CNU Intern (FREEMAN)